As a number of the symptoms of poor circulation, including bruising, discoloration, and swelling, are visible on the skin, many don’t realize there are also invisible signs of circulatory system problems. If you’re a family caregiver for a senior relative, knowing the symptoms of poor circulation can ensure your loved one receives early treatment. Read on for four hidden signs of circulation problems.
1. Cold Extremities
While having cold fingers and toes is normal and common among women of all ages, cold hands and feet can sometimes be a symptom of something more serious. If your loved one also experiences numbness or tingling, cold extremities can be the result of poor circulation. Sometimes reduced circulation to the feet and hands can also have visible symptoms, including a blue or white tinge to the skin.
2. Foggy or Confused Thinking
A decrease in the circulation of blood to the brain can lead to foggy thinking, memory problems, or difficulty speaking. If you notice your loved one is experiencing increasing difficulty communicating, his or her circulatory system may be having difficulty getting oxygenated blood to the brain. Poor circulation can also cause inflammation of the brain, which can slow neural connections, diminish mental acuity, and make it challenging to concentrate for extended periods of time.
Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality senior care. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
3. Stomach Issues
While there are many causes of digestive issues, poor circulation can reduce blood flow to the digestive system. Without regular blood flow, the brain and the digestive tract have difficulty communicating regularly, resulting in an irregular appetite and smaller, infrequent bowel movements or constipation. Though the digestive system’s schedule varies from senior to senior, sudden changes in hunger patterns and bowel movements can signal a circulation problem.
Digestive health is a major concern for older adults. If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a home care Fremont agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services.
4. Muscle Problems
Decreased blood flow can cause muscles to function at a slower rate than normal. As oxygen deprivation can lead to muscle cramps, seniors with poor circulation frequently experience painful twinges or stiffness in the calf or foot muscles. Decreased blood flow to these areas can also result in muscle deterioration because of a reduction in nutrients reaching the muscles. If your loved one regularly experiences muscle cramps even when he or she doesn’t do strenuous physical activity, it may be time to contact a doctor.
Poor circulation is just one of the many health issues older adults are susceptible to. Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but live-in care Fremont experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or recovering from a stroke, you can trust the professional caregivers from Assisting Hands Home Care to enhance his or her quality of life. To learn about our high-quality in-home care options, give us a call at (510) 270-4948 today.
